I’ve been thinking about something lately.
A few years ago, whenever I had a question, I usually knew who to ask.
If I had a car problem, I’d call a friend who knew cars.
If I needed help with taxes, I’d message someone in the family.
If I was trying to fix something around the house, I’d ask the person who always seemed to know how.
Those conversations were never just about getting an answer. We would end up talking about other things. We’d catch up. We’d laugh. Sometimes the answer wasn’t even that important.
Today, I rarely do that.
Instead, I open ChatGPT or another AI tool and ask my question. Within seconds I get a clear explanation that is often better organized than what I would have heard over the phone.
It’s fast. It’s convenient. It saves time.
But I wonder what we’re losing.
Every question that goes to AI is one less reason to call someone. One less conversation with a friend. One less chance to hear someone’s story or opinion. Over time, those small interactions add up.
I’m not saying AI is bad. I use it every day, and I genuinely think it’s one of the most useful technologies we’ve seen in years. It helps me learn faster, solve problems, and build things that would have taken much longer before.
The problem isn’t AI itself.
The problem is that we’re replacing human moments without even noticing.
Relationships aren’t built only through birthdays, holidays, or planned visits. They’re built through random conversations. Through asking for advice. Through helping each other with small problems.
When AI answers every question instantly, those little moments start to disappear.
Maybe the answer isn’t to stop using AI. That wouldn’t make much sense.
Maybe it’s simply to remember that not every question needs the fastest answer.
Sometimes it’s worth calling your dad to ask about that strange noise in your car, even if AI already knows the answer.
Sometimes it’s worth texting a friend who works in finance instead of asking an AI about taxes.
Not because they know more.
Because staying connected is more valuable than saving five minutes.
Technology has always made life easier.
The challenge is making sure it doesn’t quietly make us more distant from the people around us.